10 Things To Think About Before Moving to Exeter
The city of Exeter offers the perfect mix of charming old-English streets, modern restaurants and just a stone’s thow away from the countryside.
If you are thinking of moving to Devon, there are a few things you should think about before taking the leap, such as:
Where to Live: City Centre vs. Suburbs
Where you choose to live in Exeter will be majorly influenced by your lifestyle.
The advantages of living in the city centre include being close to various landmarks, such as Exeter Cathedral, a range of restaurants, and popular shopping areas including Princesshay.
However, the negative parts of living in the city centre include higher house prices, very limited parking, and noise, especially in the evenings.
In contrast, suburban living in areas like Heavitree, St Thomas, or Topsham offers quieter lifestyles, often with larger houses and more green spaces. These areas are ideal if you have a family but may need to account for longer commutes if you work in the city.
Local Schools and Catchment Areas
Not surprisingly, the quality of local schooling is an important factor for families moving to Exeter.
The city contains several highly regarded schools. For younger children, primary schools like St. Leonard's Primary and Countess Wear Community School have strong reviews. There is also a selection at secondary, schools including the highly desired The ExeSchool and St. Peter's Church of England Aided School.
Catchment areas for these schools might come with higher property prices due to demand.
Public Transport
Public transport in Exeter is very well connected.
It is pretty easy to get around Exeter without a car, thanks to Stagecoach South West, which runs frequent bus services around the city and its surroundings.
There are also two main train stations in the city, Exeter St. David's and Central, offering direct and easy links with London, Bristol, and beyond. The city of Exeter is very cycle-friendly, with bike routes around, such as the scenic Exe Estuary Trail, especially for eco-conscious commuters.
Job Opportunities
Exeter has a growing economy, especially in healthcare, education, and technology.
The Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital is one of the biggest local employers in this area; the University of Exeter employs a lot in education and research. In Exeter, the current employment rate is at 78.8%, which is relatively strong compared to the national average.
Crime Rates
Exeter is known to be quite a safe place to live, with low crime rates compared to many UK
cities.
Places like Topsham and Pinhoe are really low-crime suburbs, which easily suit families.
Though the city centre has relatively higher rates of crimes, these are mostly related to thefts and anti-social behavioural activities because of the nightlife.
Overall, it is safer than the average, as presented by 2023 UK Police data.
Local Areas to Explore
The city is well-placed for easy access to some of the UK's most beautiful landscapes.
Dartmoor National Park is a short drive away, offering hiking and wildlife spotting opportunities.
The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is ideal for seaside exploration. Within the city, the Exeter Quayside is a focal point for kayaking, paddle boarding, and riverside dining-all offering a good mix of adventure and relaxation.
Cost of Living
The living cost in Exeter is affordable compared with other cities in the UK.
As of 2023, the average property price is approximately £331,000. The costs of renting a two-bedroom flat range between £950 to £1,800 a month. All utility costs are slightly below the UK average, and the walkability of the city means transport isn’t as costly.
Community and Lifestyle
Exeter is friendly and communal.
Throughout the year, the city has events, including Exeter Food Festival and Christmas Markets. Students live amongst families and retirees in this town with a lively and inclusive culture.
From great social activities to a quiet community, Exeter has something for everyone.
Weather
Exeter has a mild climate compared to the rest of the UK. The average annual temperature in the city is about 10°C, with wet but normally mild winters and pleasant summers. This makes Exeter pretty perfect for all-year-round outdoor activities.
Finding A Reliable Company To Help With Your Move
Choosing the right removals company in Exeter can help with the hassle of relocation. The Box Co. is a trusted name in Exeter, offering services from packing to secure storage.
When hiring a moving company, it's worth getting quotes from multiple movers and checking reviews to make sure they are reliable and good value for money.
Moving To Exeter
Moving to Exeter gives residents a great combination of city living with access to natural beauty.
This city has so much to offer, from its historical ambience to its community spirit and stunning surroundings. Just make sure you do your research before, so you’re entering into this new home with all the information at your fingertips.
